Abstract

Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a common complication of diabetic retinopathy and a leading cause of vision loss. Corticosteroids, administered either topically or intravitreally, have been widely used for management of DME. Objectives: To compare the changes in IOP associated with topical and intravitreal steroid therapy for DME in diabetic patients.Methods: A prospective, randomized, controlled trial was conducted involving diabetic patients with DME. A total of 60 patients (30 in each group) were enrolled. Group A received topical steroid therapy, while Group B received intravitreal steroid therapy. Baseline IOP measurements were recorded for all participants. Subsequent IOP measurements were taken at regular intervals (e.g., 1 week, 1 month, 3 months) following the initiation of therapy. Results: The mean age was 60 years, and the duration of diabetes ranged from 5 to 15 years. Baseline IOP values were comparable between Group A (15.2 ± 1.8 mmHg) and Group B (15.1 ± 1.7 mmHg). In Group A, the mean IOP increased to 17.5 ± 2.2 mmHg at 1 week, 18.6 ± 2.5 mmHg at 1 month, and 16.8 ± 2.1 mmHg at 3 months. In Group B, the mean IOP increased to 21.3 ± 3.1 mmHg at 1 week, 22.8 ± 3.5 mmHg at 1 month, and 19.4 ± 2.9 mmHg at 3 months. Conclusion: Both topical and intravitreal steroid therapies for DME in diabetic patients were associated with an increase in IOP. However, the rise in IOP was more pronounced and required additional management in patients receiving intravitreal steroids.

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